The story behind Community Symbol

Dear Justice Leader,

I’ll never forget a moment early in my storytelling career in Oakland.

A community leader I interviewed told me:

“Someone in the community is thinking about how they’re going to be able to see their neighborhood change, and they’re looking for someone to answer their prayers. You and I can be that answer.”

Those words stuck with me.

If you’re doing any kind of social justice-related work, you are someone’s answer.

And when your impact is clearly seen and understood?

You can shift policy. You can influence peers. You can build a movement.

I’ve spent my entire life helping communities show the story behind the struggle, and the progress.

I grew up inspired by my parents’ stories from the ‘70s and the Black Power movement. At UC Berkeley, I organized for social justice causes and built alliances across communities fighting to be seen and respected—despite the harm of Prop. 209.

That passion led me into journalism—from community newspapers to the Washington Post, to leading an award-winning Silicon Valley news site. I learned how to craft narratives that move people and shape public opinion.

Then I took those skills into the nonprofit world, helping organizations win ballot victories, secure funding, and shift narratives around justice and equity across California.

Now, as founder and creative director of Community Symbol, I help justice-motivated leaders like you:

• Turn your outcomes into influence
• Share stories that spark investment
• Build digital movements rooted in soul and courage

Because storytelling isn’t a nice-to-have in the fight for justice. It’s our power.

I look forward to amplifying yours,

— Martin, Founder & Creative Director